Team Canada will go for gold on home soil as Langley’s McLeod Athletic Park gets set to host the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) women’s world championships June 24-30. Six teams will compete over three days in Langley. Photo courtesy of 2013 WWC Finland

Langley readies to welcome world’s best

The world’s best women’s tackle football team will be decided in Langley.

McLeod Athletic Park is gearing up to host the third edition of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) women’s world championships, which run June 24 to 30.

This will be the first time the event has been hosted outside of Europe.

“The women’s world championship has been a major catalyst in the growth and development of the sport in Canada as well as around the world,” said Shannon Donovan, the executive director of Football Canada. “We’re excited to showcase women’s tackle football this summer in Langley.”

Canada has won silver at the 2010 and 2013 championships, respectively, losing to the United States both times.

“I’ve previously had the chance to represent Canada at international competitions and I can tell you that it’s always a special feeling. This summer will be even more special for our team as they’ll get the chance to represent Canada on home soil for the first time,” said Jeff Yausie, who returns as head coach.

The coach predicted his team will be younger, stronger and faster, which should help them close the gap against the U.S.

Canada and the U.S. will be joined by Finland (which won bronze both years), Great Britain, Australia and Mexico.

The games will be played on June 24 and 27, with the results of those two days determining who plays for gold on June 30.

Canada is seeded second and opens against No. 5 Australia at 7:30 p.m. on June 24. The other games are at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Canada plays on June 27, again at 7:30 p.m., this time against the winner of No. 3 Finland and No. 4 Great Britain.

Volunteers needed

The event still needs volunteers. Anyone interested in helping out in any capacity can contact Heather Foster at heatherfoster212@gmail.com.